Extended Push The Boat Out will return in 2016

Practical Boat Owner: The dates for Push The Boat Out 2016 have been announced as 14 to 22 May. Organisers at the Rotal Yachting Association (RYA) hope the recent success of the America’s Cup World Series Portsmouth, will inspire even more to get out on the water when the free and reduced sailing tasters return next year.

The 2015 Push The Boat Out (PTBO) event saw more than 24,000 newcomers to the sport attend events at almost 350 locations across the UK, with around 16,000 people taking to the water.

Venues provided opportunities to go afloat in dinghies, yachts and on windsurf boards, alongside a range of off-the-water activities.

So far, according to feedback from clubs and centres, the event has attracted more than 2,000 individual and nearly 1,500 family memberships. More than 3,000 individuals have signed up for follow-on activities including additional taster sessions and start sailing courses.

This year, for the first time, PTBO was held over a nine-day period instead of a weekend, and the same extended format will return in 2016.

In the East, Grafham Water Sailing Club held a successful open day, welcoming 50 visitors through their doors and managing to entice 30 new club members – a significant increase on last year’s numbers.

RYA sports development manager Duncan Truswell said: ‘Push the Boat Out enabled thousands of new participants to get afloat and try sailing this year, with many people finding their local sailing provider for the first time.

‘Clubs and centres continue to get better and better at providing a welcoming environment, and we are really excited for next year’s event which I’m sure will prove even more popular.

‘With the America’s Cup World Series taking place in the UK once more in 2016 and of course the Rio Olympics just around the corner, it is a fantastic time to reach out to those inspired to try sailing by these unique events.

‘Push The Boat Out will be the perfect opportunity for new people try out our fantastic sport.’ With clubs and centres organising next season’s activities well in advance, the dates for PTBO 2016 have been confirmed as early as possible, so that planning for individual events can begin in good time.

Connect with us

Latest News

Practical Boat Owner: British Sailing Team sailor Elliot Willis is cycling 250 miles this September for The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity: ‘Because they got me to this point where I feel I can do it.’
The Team GB